1.2 Contact details of resource persons and institutions involved in the assessment and documentation of the Technology

Name of project which facilitated the documentation/ evaluation of the Technology (if relevant)

Strengthening national-level institutional and professional capacities of country Parties towards enhanced UNCCD monitoring and reporting – GEF 7 EA Umbrella II (GEF 7 UNCCD Enabling Activities_Umbrella II)

Name of the institution(s) which facilitated the documentation/ evaluation of the Technology (if relevant)

National Soil Services Center, Department of Agric (National Soil Services Center, Department of Agric) - Bhutan

1.3 Conditions regarding the use of data documented through WOCAT

The compiler and key resource person(s) accept the conditions regarding the use of data documented through WOCAT:

Yes

1.4 Declaration on sustainability of the described Technology

Is the Technology described here problematic with regard to land degradation, so that it cannot be declared a sustainable land management technology?

No

2.1 Short description of the Technology

Definition of the Technology:

Vegetables are intercropped between fruit-bearing trees in orchards. This maximizes land utilization, increases agrobiodiversity, and optimizes agricultural productivity.

2.2 Detailed description of the Technology

Description:

Intercropping of vegetables with fruit-bearing trees in orchards can be an effective system in terms of production and agroecology. It is a sustainable farming technique that optimizes land use, increases agrobiodiversity, diversifies production, and enhances overall yields. Land users in Yusipang grow peas, beans, and cole crops (cabbages, kale, etc.) in their apple orchards.
Intercropping vegetables in orchard land optimizes the use of space, sunlight, water and nutrients. Intercropping also increases biodiversity within the orchard ecosystem. This coexistence of species reduces the vulnerability of the orchard to crop failure and pest infestation: it improves the residence of the overall system.
Trees in the system absorb nutrients from the soil and return them through fallen leaves, thereby improving soil fertility and reducing reliance on external fertilizers. This nutrient recycling improves the overall health of the orchard ecosystem. Intercropping can also help in natural pest management through various mechanisms – including the attraction of beneficial insects - thus reducing the need for chemical pesticides. It also fosters a beneficial microclimate.
To establish intercropping of vegetables in orchards, careful planning and design is required with respect to crop selection, spacing of trees and intercrops, irrigation, and nutrient management. Regular weeding and mulching are required alongside adequate irrigation, integrated pest management, and pruning of fruit trees to prevent competition for light and space.
Intercropping of vegetables in orchards thus offers multiple benefits to farmers and the overall agricultural system, including increased farm productivity. It increases climate resilience and improves the health of the agroecosystem. However, it is important to be aware of potential drawbacks. These include competition between crops for resources - and labour. Sound management practices can overcome these challenges and maximize the effectiveness of intercropping.

2.3 Photos of the Technology

2.4 Videos of the Technology

2.5 Country/ region/ locations where the Technology has been applied and which are covered by this assessment

2.6 Date of implementation

If precise year is not known, indicate approximate date:

• 10-50 years ago

2.7 Introduction of the Technology

Specify how the Technology was introduced:

• as part of a traditional system (> 50 years)

3.1 Main purpose(s) of the Technology

• reduce, prevent, restore land degradation
• conserve ecosystem
• preserve/ improve biodiversity
• reduce risk of disasters
• create beneficial economic impact

3.2 Current land use type(s) where the Technology is applied

Land use mixed within the same land unit:

Yes

Specify mixed land use (crops/ grazing/ trees):

• Agroforestry

3.3 Has land use changed due to the implementation of the Technology?

Has land use changed due to the implementation of the Technology?

• No (Continue with question 3.4)

3.4 Water supply

Water supply for the land on which the Technology is applied:

• mixed rainfed-irrigated

3.5 SLM group to which the Technology belongs

• agroforestry
• rotational systems (crop rotation, fallows, shifting cultivation)
• improved ground/ vegetation cover

3.6 SLM measures comprising the Technology

3.7 Main types of land degradation addressed by the Technology

3.8 Prevention, reduction, or restoration of land degradation

Specify the goal of the Technology with regard to land degradation:

• prevent land degradation
• reduce land degradation

4.1 Technical drawing of the Technology

4.2 General information regarding the calculation of inputs and costs

Specify how costs and inputs were calculated:

• per Technology area

other/ national currency (specify):

BTN

If relevant, indicate exchange rate from USD to local currency (e.g. 1 USD = 79.9 Brazilian Real): 1 USD =:

81.0

4.3 Establishment activities

	Activity	Timing (season)
1.	Assess the orchard: Evaluate the orchard's existing conditions, including soil fertility, drainage, sunlight availability, and pest and disease history. This assessment will help determine the feasibility and suitability of intercropping vegetables in the orchard.	Anytime
2.	Select compatible vegetable crops: Choose vegetable crops that are compatible with the existing fruit trees in terms of their growth requirements, sunlight tolerance, water needs, and harvesting periods. Consider crops that are less competitive and can thrive in the orchard's microclimate.	Year-round
3.	Plan the intercropping layout: Develop a planting design that optimises space utilisation and resource distribution. Consider factors such as crop spacing, row orientation, and the arrangement of vegetable crops within the orchard. Ensure that the intercropped vegetables are positioned to minimise shading and competition with the fruit trees.	Anytime
4.	Prepare the soil: Prior to planting, prepare the soil by clearing any existing vegetation and weeds. Conduct soil testing to assess nutrient levels and pH, and amend the soil if necessary to create optimal growing conditions for both the vegetables and fruit trees.	Spring
5.	Implement irrigation systems: Install or adapt irrigation systems to accommodate the intercropped vegetables' water requirements. Consider the water needs of both the vegetables and fruit trees when determining irrigation frequency and duration.	Anytime
6.	Manage nutrients: Determine the nutrient requirements of the intercropped vegetables and fruit trees. Based on soil test results, develop a fertilization plan that addresses the nutritional needs of both crops. Apply organic or synthetic fertilizers as appropriate, considering the specific nutrient requirements of each crop.	Anytime
7.	Implement pest and disease management strategies: Develop an integrated pest management (IPM) plan to control pests and diseases effectively. Monitor the orchard regularly for signs of pests or diseases and take appropriate preventive or corrective actions, such as using natural predators, applying organic pesticides, or practising cultural methods like crop rotation.	After plantation
8.	Weed management: Employ weed control measures to minimise competition between the vegetables and fruit trees. This can include mulching the soil around plants, practising regular manual weeding, or using targeted herbicides that are safe for both crops.	After plantation
9.	Monitor and adjust: Continuously monitor the growth and performance of both the vegetables and fruit trees throughout the growing season. Make necessary adjustments to irrigation, fertilisation, pest control, and other management practices based on observations and the specific needs of each crop.	Year-round

4.4 Costs and inputs needed for establishment

If you are unable to break down the costs in the table above, give an estimation of the total costs of establishing the Technology:

23000.0

If land user bore less than 100% of costs, indicate who covered the remaining costs:

The land users bore 100% of costs.

Comments:

Taking into consideration the labour charge for layout making, pit digging, pit filling, use of equipment such as spades and crowbars, and plantation of fruit trees and then some seasonal vegetables in between the fruit trees in 1 ac of land, the approximate cost of establishment is Nu 23000 (USD 284).

4.6 Costs and inputs needed for maintenance/ recurrent activities (per year)

If you are unable to break down the costs in the table above, give an estimation of the total costs of maintaining the Technology:

6000.0

If land user bore less than 100% of costs, indicate who covered the remaining costs:

The land users bore 100% of costs.

Comments:

Taking into consideration maintenance activities such as weeding, watering, manuring, pruning, and pest and disease management in 1 ac of land, the approximate cost of maintenance per year is Nu 6000 (USD 74).

5.1 Climate

5.2 Topography

Indicate if the Technology is specifically applied in:

• not relevant

Comments and further specifications on topography:

2698 m.a.s.l.

5.3 Soils

If available, attach full soil description or specify the available information, e.g. soil type, soil PH/ acidity, Cation Exchange Capacity, nitrogen, salinity etc.

Moisture content-1.97%
Organic matter-6.19%
Organic carbon-3.60%
pH-6.61
Electrical conductivity-420.00 µs/cm
Nitrogen-0.18
Phosphorus-0.16
Potassium-155.07 mg/100ml
Soil texture-Sand Clay Loam

5.4 Water availability and quality

Is water salinity a problem?

No

Is flooding of the area occurring?

No

Comments and further specifications on water quality and quantity:

There are no risks of flooding as the area is located on hills.

5.5 Biodiversity

Comments and further specifications on biodiversity:

Intercropping of vegetables with fruit-bearing trees in orchards increases biodiversity within the orchard ecosystem.

5.6 Characteristics of land users applying the Technology

5.7 Average area of land used by land users applying the Technology

5.8 Land ownership, land use rights, and water use rights

Land ownership:

• individual, not titled

Land use rights:

• individual

Water use rights:

• communal (organized)

Are land use rights based on a traditional legal system?

Yes

Specify:

The land user right follows national policy and rights.

5.9 Access to services and infrastructure

6.1 On-site impacts the Technology has shown

Socio-economic impacts

Production

Water availability and quality

Income and costs

Socio-cultural impacts

Ecological impacts

Soil

Biodiversity: vegetation, animals

Climate and disaster risk reduction

6.2 Off-site impacts the Technology has shown

6.3 Exposure and sensitivity of the Technology to gradual climate change and climate-related extremes/ disasters (as perceived by land users)

Gradual climate change

Gradual climate change

	Season	increase or decrease	How does the Technology cope with it?
annual temperature		increase	moderately
seasonal temperature	summer	increase	moderately
annual rainfall		decrease	not well

Climate-related extremes (disasters)

Meteorological disasters

	How does the Technology cope with it?
local snowstorm	well

Climatological disasters

	How does the Technology cope with it?
cold wave	well

Biological disasters

	How does the Technology cope with it?
insect/ worm infestation	well

6.4 Cost-benefit analysis

How do the benefits compare with the establishment costs (from land users’ perspective)?

How do the benefits compare with the maintenance/ recurrent costs (from land users' perspective)?

6.5 Adoption of the Technology

• 1-10%

Of all those who have adopted the Technology, how many did so spontaneously, i.e. without receiving any material incentives/ payments?

• 91-100%

Comments:

No subsidies

6.6 Adaptation

Has the Technology been modified recently to adapt to changing conditions?

No

6.7 Strengths/ advantages/ opportunities of the Technology

Strengths/ advantages/ opportunities in the land user’s view
1. Increased land productivity: Intercropping vegetables in orchards allows for more efficient use of land by utilizing the space between fruit trees. This increases overall productivity and maximizes the yield from the same area of land.
2. Diversified income streams: By intercropping vegetables, orchard owners can generate additional income from the sale of different crops. This helps to diversify their revenue streams and reduce dependence on a single crop, thereby minimizing financial risks.
3. Improved pest and disease management: Certain vegetable crops can act as natural pest repellents or trap crops, effectively reducing the population of pests that target fruit trees. By intercropping, orchard owners can create a more balanced ecosystem, leading to better pest and disease management without relying heavily on chemical interventions.

Strengths/ advantages/ opportunities in the compiler’s or other key resource person’s view
1. Enhanced soil fertility and nutrient cycling: Intercropping systems often involve the planting of leguminous vegetables, such as peas or beans, which are capable of fixing atmospheric nitrogen and improving soil fertility. These vegetables can replenish nitrogen levels in the soil, benefiting the overall health and growth of both the fruit trees and the intercropped vegetables.
2. Weed suppression: Intercropping vegetables can help suppress weed growth in orchards. The dense foliage of intercropped vegetables can shade out and outcompete weeds, reducing the need for manual weeding or herbicide application. This results in reduced labour and cost associated with weed control.
3. Microclimate regulation: Intercropping can modify the microclimate within the orchard. The intercrop plants provide shade and windbreak, which can help regulate temperature, humidity, and air movement. These microclimate modifications can protect fruit trees from extreme weather conditions and create more favorable growing conditions, promoting overall orchard health.

6.8 Weaknesses/ disadvantages/ risks of the Technology and ways of overcoming them

Weaknesses/ disadvantages/ risks in the land user’s view	How can they be overcome?
Competition for resources: Intercropped vegetables and fruit trees compete for essential resources such as water, nutrients, sunlight, and space. This competition can result in reduced growth and yield for both crops.	Supply adequate nutrients.
Increased management complexity: Intercropping adds complexity to the management of the orchard. Different crops may have different requirements in terms of irrigation, fertilization, pest control, and harvesting, requiring additional attention and labour.	Proper planning and management taking into consideration differing requirements.

Weaknesses/ disadvantages/ risks in the compiler’s or other key resource person’s view	How can they be overcome?
Difficulty in weed control: Intercropping can make weed control more challenging. Different crops may have different susceptibilities to weeds, and managing weeds without harming the intercropped vegetables or fruit trees can be demanding.	Weed management and different control measures should be taken.
Reduced crop specialisation: Intercropping can limit the space available for each crop, leading to reduced specialisation. This may result in lower yields compared to cultivating a single crop in a dedicated area with optimised growing conditions.	Must keep proper/required spaces between each of the plants.
Harvesting difficulties: Harvesting intercropped vegetables in an orchard can be more time-consuming and labour-intensive compared to harvesting a single crop. The presence of fruit trees and the arrangement of different crops may hinder access and make harvesting more challenging.	Mechanized harvesting may reduce time taken for harvest.

7.1 Methods/ sources of information

7.2 References to available publications

Title, author, year, ISBN:

Mishra, U. & Wani, N. A. (2022). An integrated circular economic model with controllable carbon emission and deterioration from an apple orchard.

Available from where? Costs?

Google Scholar

Title, author, year, ISBN:

Hashemi, A. & Karamidehkordi, E. (2010). FARMERS'KNOWLEDGE OF INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT: A CASE STUDY IN THE ZANJAN PROVINCE IN IRAN.

Available from where? Costs?

Free website

Title, author, year, ISBN:

Kumar, L. & Chhogyel, N. (2018). Climate change and potential impacts on agriculture in Bhutan: a discussion of pertinent issues.

Available from where? Costs?

Free source

7.3 Links to relevant online information

Title/ description:

An integrated circular economic model with controllable carbon emission and deterioration from an apple orchard

URL:

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2022.133962

Title/ description:

FARMERS'KNOWLEDGE OF INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT: A CASE STUDY IN THE ZANJAN PROVINCE IN IRAN.

URL:

https://hal.science/hal-00510402

Title/ description:

Climate change and potential impacts on agriculture in Bhutan: a discussion of pertinent issues

URL:

https://agricultureandfoodsecurity.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40066-018-0229-6

7.4 General comments

The land users in Yusipang commented that the production of vegetables in the orchard was done on a small scale and for self-consumption.